Making an impact in SD
In May 2013, the Foundation partnered with Feeding South Dakota to create the signature Prime Time Gala fundraising event. This annual gala raises critical funds to support Feeding South Dakota's mission of providing beef to food-insecure families across the state. This event also promotes the nutritional benefits of beef consumption and the value of modern production practices, supporting the cattle industry as a whole.
Through the event, and other fundraising efforts, the Foundation is able to fund several key initiatives:
Fed Cattle Challenge Program
that helps to develop the next generation of feed yard owners and managers in South Dakota by providing an opportunity for youth, ages 14 to 18, to learn about the science and economics of finishing cattle by participating in a cattle finishing program.
Scholarship Program
that annually awards $15,000 to five students attending South Dakota schools interested in the improvement of beef production and promotion.
Educational programming
and important resources needed for local agricultural non-profits and research opportunities.
Board of Directors
Meet the people who put in the work to make this organization possible.
Ryan Eichler
Todd Wilkinson
Desa Larson
Addie Graham-Kramer
Matt Bode
Cory Eich
Ty Eschenbaum
Brian Gilbert
Jared Knock
Roxanne Knock
Josh Larson
Donnie Leddy
Tyler Melroe
Troy Swanson
Jean Wilkinson Memorial Branding Iron
The branding iron is an iconic piece of western heritage and a staple of the cattle industry. The iron is used to identify ownership and leaves an indelible mark where it is placed. Jean Wilkinson embodied the deep connection of the branding iron. As a founding member of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation, Jean left a mark on everyone she came in contact with.
Her selfless and relentless pursuit to serve others was inspiring and a model for many. Much like the material in which the iron is forged, Jean was a quiet kind of tough. Jean battled several health challenges for as many years as the foundation had been in existence, but always did so with the positivity and grace most of us could only hope to muster. Her faith and dedication to family and community is her legacy.
Jean passed away in the spring of 2021. The mark she left imprinted on our hearts inspired the Cattlemen’s Foundation to memorialize the Branding Iron Award in her honor. It is awarded to someone connected to the beef industry who goes above and beyond in the service of others and who exemplifies the tireless effort of our beloved leader. Her memory will live forever.
The recipients of the Branding Iron Award are:
2018
Jean Wilkinson
2019
Ryan Eichler
2020
Terry Heinle
2021
Matt Gassen
2022
Roxanne Knock
Tyler Melroe2023
Greg Ryken
2024
Brian Gilbert